Approaches
Somatic Experiencing Practitioner (SEP)
Somatic Experiencing (SE) is a type of therapy that focuses on physical sensations in the body in order to address trauma, symptoms related to trauma, and to overcome the effects of experiencing extremely stressful events. It is effective in treating post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Unlike other forms of mental health therapy that focus on thoughts, feelings, and emotions, somatic experiencing involves bringing awareness to how the physical body feels.
By increasing bodily awareness, developing ways to release trauma, and finding ways to relax the body, people can find relief. This holistic approach prioritizes the connection between the mind and the body, making it effective in addressing trauma, PTSD, and various mental and emotional health issues. I am certified in this approach and have assisted in the first 6 levels of training.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a unique form of psychotherapy developed by Dr. Francine Shapiro in 1987 to treat post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and trauma-related responses. During EMDR sessions, therapists use bilateral stimulation (usually eye movements or rhythmic tapping) to engage both sides of the brain. This helps reprocess traumatic memories stored in an unprocessed state.
The therapy follows the Adaptive Information Processing Model, which posits that traumatic events aren’t properly processed in the brain when they happen, leading to symptoms like nightmares, flashbacks, and anxiety. EMDR aims to change how these memories are stored, allowing individuals to face traumatic memories without intense emotional reactions. Its benefits include improved emotional well-being, reduced PTSD symptoms, and that it is a holistic approach that integrates mind and body for healing.
Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)
Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) is a therapeutic approach developed in the 1980s that focuses on enhancing emotional connections within oneself and with others. Rooted in the belief that emotions play a central role in experiences and relationships, EFT aims to establish a secure sense of self for individuals, fostering happier and healthier connections.
EFT is versatile, catering not only to couples (Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy) but also benefiting individuals (EFIT) and families (EFFT), addressing issues like depression, anxiety, and strained relationships. The therapy's emphasis on understanding and managing emotions sets it apart, aiming for lasting change rather than quick fixes, supported by extensive clinical research and applied in various relationship education programs.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
Dialectical Behavior Therapy is a type of talk therapy specially adapted for individuals who experience intense emotions. It combines cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) with acceptance-based strategies. Developed by Marsha Linehan, DBT helps people accept their reality while learning healthier ways to cope. It is effective for conditions such as borderline personality disorder, self-harm, suicidal behaviour, PTSD, substance use disorder, eating disorders, depression, and anxiety.
DBT emphasizes a balance between acceptance and change, incorporating mindfulness, emotion regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness skills. The purpose of DBT is to assist in the development of appropriate coping mechanisms and enable the integration of skills throughout an individual's life (e.g. home, school, work, and within the community). This approach looks to assist individuals with the reduction of problematic behaviour that might be negatively contributing to their daily functioning.
I am an experienced facilitator of 12-week trauma-focused DBT groups.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is a psychotherapeutic approach that helps individuals recognize and modify destructive thought patterns influencing their behaviour and emotions. By combining cognitive therapy with behavior therapy, CBT targets maladaptive thinking, emotional responses, and behaviors, replacing them with healthier alternatives.
Techniques employed in CBT include identifying negative thoughts, improving emotional regulation, and developing coping mechanisms. The benefits of CBT are manifold: it rectifies faulty beliefs, corrects improper behavior related to emotional dysfunction, and enhances emotional regulation. Moreover, CBT is quick and structured, often requiring fewer sessions than other therapies. CBT doesn’t make stressful situations vanish, but it empowers clients to respond more positively and improve overall well-being.
Prolonged Exposure
Prolonged Exposure (PE) is a structured, evidence-based therapy designed to help individuals confront and process trauma-related memories, emotions, and situations in a safe, controlled manner. It involves gradually exposing clients to trauma reminders they have been avoiding, both through imaginal exposure (revisiting the traumatic memory) and in vivo exposure (facing real-life triggers). This process helps reduce fear and distress by desensitizing the brain to these triggers, breaking the cycle of avoidance and fear. PE is highly effective for treating post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and related conditions, allowing individuals to regain a sense of control, reduce symptoms, and improve their overall quality of life.
Mindfulness
Mindfulness techniques, when integrated into therapy, serve as powerful tools for promoting emotional well-being and mental health. These practices involve cultivating a heightened awareness of the present moment, allowing individuals to observe their thoughts and feelings without judgment. Therapists often incorporate mindfulness-based interventions to help clients manage stress, anxiety, and depression by fostering a non-reactive and accepting mindset.
Through techniques such as mindfulness meditation and mindful breathing, individuals can develop greater self-awareness, emotional regulation, and an improved capacity to cope with life's challenges. The benefits include enhanced focus, reduced emotional reactivity, and an increased ability to make thoughtful, intentional choices. Moreover, mindfulness practices can contribute to an overall sense of calm and resilience, empowering individuals to navigate their inner experiences more skillfully and foster a positive impact on their mental health.
Polyvagal Theory
Polyvagal theory, proposed by Dr. Stephen Porges, explores the autonomic nervous system's role in regulating social engagement and responses to stress. This theory suggests that the vagus nerve plays a crucial role in shaping our physiological reactions. In therapy, understanding polyvagal theory can empower individuals with trauma or stress by providing insights into their bodily responses.
By recognizing the interconnectedness of bodily sensations and emotional experiences, clients gain a comprehensive understanding of their symptoms. Therapists use polyvagal theory as a tool to help clients identify and regulate their autonomic nervous system responses, fostering a sense of safety and control. This approach supports a more holistic and nuanced therapeutic intervention, addressing both the emotional and physiological aspects of trauma or stress.
Biofeedback and HRV
Biofeedback, particularly utilizing Heart Rate Variability (HRV), is a valuable tool in therapy for aiding individuals in regulating their physiological responses and addressing trauma or stress. HRV measures the variation in time between heartbeats, offering insights into the autonomic nervous system's functioning. In therapy, biofeedback with HRV provides real-time data, allowing individuals to observe and learn to modulate their heart rate patterns.
This self-regulation enhances awareness and control over the autonomic nervous system, assisting in managing stress and trauma-related symptoms. Therapists can guide clients in using HRV biofeedback to develop effective coping mechanisms, promoting a sense of empowerment and resilience. The tool's real-time feedback fosters a mind-body connection, aiding in the integration of therapeutic interventions for a more comprehensive approach to trauma and stress management.